Elbow Hyperextension Injury
An elbow hyperextension injury occurs when the elbow is bent back the wrong way. This type of injury will occur more frequently in contact sports such as Rugby Football or certain martial arts e.g. JuJitsu. The elbow pain is caused when the elbow is forced to bend the wrong way or hyperextend causing damage to the ligaments and structures of the elbow.
Symptoms of Elbow Hyperextension
- Instant pain as the arm is forced straight.
- Pain at the front of the elbow (side that creases when the arm is bent).
- Some swelling may appear.
- The biceps may spasm to protect the joint, making it difficult to straighten the arm.
Treatment
What can the athlete do to prevent elbow hyperextension injury?
- Immediate treatment involves application of cold therapy and compression.
- Rest until symptoms resolve. Wear a support or heat retainer.
- Apply strapping to prevent the elbow from hyper extending (bending backwards) whilst healing.
What can a sports injury therapist to reduce elbow pain?
- Advise on rehabilitation.
- Use ultrasound to help reduce pain and swelling.
- Apply taping to give the elbow support and prevent hyperextension.
